How to Test Home Water for Toxins

Items required to test water at home.

Governmental agencies do not regulate private home water wells, so it is up to you to test your home water for toxins. Because the collection process is relatively simple, most individuals can collect the water themselves and save money. However, for an additional fee an experienced agent will come to your home to collect the sample. Keep in mind that, once collected, the water may have no more than a 30-hour shelf life for a valid test.

Things You'll Need

• Collection bottles
• Water analysis form
• Check or money order
• Protective shipping box
• Postage

Instructions

1. Obtain proper water collection bottles, instructions and analysis forms from your local environmental health department. Private testing agencies are also available. If you choose a private testing firm, contact the firm for water collection materials.

2. Collect your water sample between 1 and 3 p.m. on a Monday or Tuesday. Make sure the day you test and the following day are both business days, as water samples have a short shelf life.

3. Turn on a faucet and allow the water to run for several minutes before collecting a water sample. Running the water will allow any sediment from the water pipes to flush out before collecting your sample.

4. Open the collection container and hold it about 2 inches under the faucet, catching the water as it falls, filling the container to the neck.

5. Replace the cap without touching the inside of the bottle or cap, and secure it tightly.

6. Fill out the water analysis form. The form asks for your name, address, phone number, collection site, time of day and your e-mail address, if you have one, for faster results. Place a checkmark in each box on the form next to the specific toxin test you are requesting. Examples are arsenic, iron, lead, copper, manganese, zinc, fluoride, sodium, organic solvents, coliforms, and E. coli. Total the fees for the tests chosen and place the total in the box on the form.

7. Place the completed form, check or money order for the total amount, and water sample in the box provided. Apply required postage to the box and take it to your local post office the same day.

Tips & Warnings

• The post office can calculate postage due when you arrive there. Most post offices close between 4 and 5 p.m.; know your post office hours in advance. You can purchase a money order at the post office if you do not have a check; you must use cash or a debit card to purchase a money order at the post office. Water test kits are available at no charge at your local environmental health office.

• If you drop the lid to the collection bottle on the floor, do not use it. Request a new kit. Do not rinse the collection bottle, as it may contain a preservative. If the home has been empty for several months, use the faucet closest to the pressure tank and disinfect the faucet before collecting a sample. Toxin testing is expensive.

References

• How It Works: Water Well Pump
• Private Ground Water Wells
• Homeowner and Residential Drinking Water, Groundwater, Spring Water Testing

Resources

• EPA Safewater Home: Private Drinking Water Wells
• Well Water Testing Frequently Asked Questions